What is genomic sequencing, how does it work and why is it important in the fight against coronavirus?

Testing is a powerful tool in the fight against COVID-19, just like contact tracing, masks, social distancing and personal protective equipment.

Genomic testing sample being pipetted into a petri dish, genetic results in the background (Getty Images). Source: Getty Images

And so too is genomic sequencing.  It helps scientists to do the detective work of linking individual cases to known outbreaks and clusters. Genomic sequencing can also identify common behaviours and potential risk factors among people who contract the virus.

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Montage of doctor assessing electronic genomic record on tablet, with holographic, virtual background. (Getty Images). Source: Getty Images